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- KEITH FALKINER

TRIBUTES have poured in for singer Sinead O'Connor following her death at the age of 56.

In a statement last night, the singer's family expressed their devastation at her passing.

It read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinead. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time."

The Dubliner, who was born in Glenageary in 1966, released 10 studio albums. She is survived by three of her children. Her son Shane passed away last year at the age of 17.

President Michael D Higgins said Ireland had lost one of our "greatest and most gifted composers, songwriters and performers".

He said: "May I send my deepest condolences to Sinead O'Connor's father John, the members of her family and to all those with whom she shared her life. My first reaction on hearing the news of Sinead's loss was to remember her extraordinarily beautiful, unique voice.

"What Ireland has lost at such a relatively young age is one of our greatest and most gifted composers, songwriters and performers of recent decades.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also paid tribute to Sinead, describing her as "beyond compare". He said: "Really "Really sorry to hear of the passing of Sinead O'Connor.

"Her music was loved around the world and her talent was unmatched and beyond compare.

"Condolences to her family, her friends and all who loved her music. Ar dheis De go Raibh a hAnam."